Major in Philosophy

Philosophy Major

Students enrolled in the Philosophy program explore the historical trajectory of philosophical
thought and its current applications in many professional and academic fields. Philosophy
is a critical and reflective discipline, the study of which strengthens students'
evaluative and moral reasoning skills and prepares students to succeed in future endeavors
such as law school, seminary, medicine, business, computer science, and education.
Students may earn a major or minor in Philosophy.

Bachelor of Arts Degree

CIP 38.0101

University Studies Requirements

(See Academic Degrees and Programs.)

44-47 hours

Required Courses

20 hours

PHI 099 Transitions

PHI 201 Introduction to Philosophy*

PHI 202 Ethics*

PHI 203 Symbolic Logic

PHI 304 History of Philosophy I: Ancient and Medieval

PHI 305 History of Philosophy II: Modern/19th Century

PHI 392 Professional Engagement

PHI 498 Major Figures

Tracks/Electives

Philosophy majors have the option to pursue four distinct tracks within the discipline.
The chosen track determines the required electives. See p. 151-152 of the 2013-14 academic bulletin for a listing of track-specific electives.

Track

Electives

Aesthetics and
Media Writing

24 hours

History and Contemporary
Thought

18 hours

Political Thought

18 hours

Religious Thought

18 hours

Required Minor

21 hours

Unrestricted Electives

8-17 hours

Total Curriculum Requirements

120 hours

* Required for major whether or not taken as University Studies elective.

“A feeling of wonder is what marks the philosopher, and philosophy begins in wonder.”
– Socrates, from Plato’s Theaetus

Plato and Aristotle, Greek philosophers

“Empathy is not simply a matter of trying to imagine
what others are going through, but having the will to muster enough courage to
do something about it. In a way, empathy is predicated upon hope.”

– Cornel
West

Dr. Cornel West, contemporary
philosopher

The requirements listed above are an example of what is applicable to most students
entering Murray State University under the 2013-14 academic bulletin. Criteria as they may relate to individual students may vary. The primary source
is the MSU bulletin applicable at the time of the student enrollment; if you enrolled prior
to the 2013-14 academic year, consult the registrar's listing for your applicable bulletin.